Final answer:
The answer to the question is b) Espresso; syrup. The practice ensures that syrup is thoroughly mixed with espresso before milk is added, forming a homogeneous mixture or solution.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct response to the question, Always stir __________ and ___________ together before adding milk, is b) Espresso; syrup.
When preparing drinks such as lattés or flavored coffees, it's a common practice to first blend any espresso with syrups or sweeteners before incorporating milk or cream to create a smooth and well-mixed beverage. This process ensures that the syrup mixes uniformly with the espresso, creating a consistent flavor throughout.
In contrast, coffee with added sugar and water, which is mentioned as one of the options, would actually be a type of homogeneous mixture or solution once the sugar is fully dissolved.
The method of stirring espresso and syrup before the addition of milk is tied to the dissolving process that occurs in solutions, where the solvent (espresso) uniformly dissolves the solute (syrup), allowing for thorough incorporation before milk is added.